Investigation of the Effect of Gum Arabic-Rice Husk Hybrid Filler on the Mechanical Properties of Polystyrene Composite

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of Gum Arabic-Rice Husk (GA-RH) on the mechanical properties of polystyrene (PS) composites. Polystyrene, widely used in packaging, construction, and electronics, faces limitations in mechanical strength and flammability. The GA-RH offers a natural, cost-effective reinforcement solution. The research evaluated PS composites with varying hybrid GA-RH filler compositions (from 100/0 to 80/20 PS/GA-RH proportion) through physical and mechanical tests such as tensile strength, hardness, and impact strength. Key findings revealed that the addition of GA-RH influenced the composite's density, water absorption, and mechanical performance. The optimal composition, 97.5 % PS and 2.5 % GA-RH, showed the highest tensile strength (32.13 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (434.46 MPa). While the hardness showed improvement up to 85 % PS and 15 % GA-RH. This study concluded that for applications requiring higher tensile strength and modulus up to 2.5 GA-RH in PS is recommended, while for improved hardness, up to 15% GA-RH in PS can be used.